Effectively reduce enteric emissions through the use of feed additives
Overview
Include feed additives into rations to effectively reduce enteric methane emissions. Feed additives come in various forms and work by targeting and suppressing the methane-producing enzyme in the rumen.
References:
- Athian Protocol Library: https://www.athian.ai/methods
- NRCS Practice Standard: Feed Management (592)
Environmental Impact
- Reduced GHG emissions
- Same milk production
- No other environmental co-benefits
References:
Kebreab, E., Bannink, A., Pressman, E. M., Walker, N., Karagiannis, A., van Gastelen, S., & Dijkstra, J. (2023). A meta-analysis of effects of 3-nitrooxypropanol on methane production, yield, and intensity in dairy cattle. Journal of Dairy Science, 106(2), 927–936. https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2022-22211
Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Estimated Cost
Scenario Unit: Animal Unit
Scenario Typical Size: 1 animal unit
Total Cost/Unit: $76.85/animal unit
Reference: NRCS Practice Standard and Scenario: CPS 592 Feed Management Scenario #42 Feed Additive: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/fy25-wa-scenarios.pdf, p. 1115.
Financial Considerations
Carbon Credit Potential: The reduction in emissions may qualify for carbon credits, with the sales of these credits potentially covering the cost of the feed additives.
Reference: Athian Protocol Library: https://www.athian.ai/methods
Timeline
Short
Dependency / Prerequisite
Prerequisites:
- Baseline measurement of current enteric emissions to track improvement.
- Access to feed additives that are scientifically proven to reduce methane emissions.
Collaboration with a dairy nutritionist to develop and monitor the adjusted ration.